Hidden gems of Ontario: Underrated places to visit beyond Toronto

Toronto and Niagara Falls often come to mind when thinking about genuine gems of Ontario. Yet, there are many hidden gems of Ontario that are also worth visiting. If you’re a traveler looking to explore some new adventures or just thinking about moving to Ontario with Centennial Moving Canada, check out these underappreciated places and get your mind rolling on what more Ontario can deliver you! You will be surprised by the charm of some small towns and the beautiful nature that can be discovered in Ontario.

Kingston: The limestone city rich in history

Kingston is a city with a rich history. It was founded in 1673 and is located at the place where Lake Ontario flows into the St. Lawrence River. People also call it the “Limestone City” because many old buildings here are made of local limestone. If you visit Kingston, you should see Fort Henry, a World Heritage Site and 19th-century British fortress. There you can enjoy the views of both the city and the lake. Also, the Kingston Penitentiary offers guided tours that explore Canada’s history. Visitors get an inside look at one of the country’s oldest prisons which was in operation until 2013. If you eventually like Kingston and moving from Alberta to Ontario becomes appealing, you will enter a welcoming community in which a slower pace of life results in a pleasant, relaxing lifestyle.

Kingston is one of the hidden gems of Ontario.

Despite the laid-back lifestyle, the downtown district is ever-bustling. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visiting the Kingston Public Market is a must. You can take a walk among the stalls and buy fresh produce, local crafts, and other artisan goods.

If you want to improve your education, one of the oldest and most celebrated Canadian universities is located in Kingston. Explore Queen’s University and choose the program that aligns with your interests. If you are an art lover, The Agnes Etherington Art Centre on campus holds a significant collection of European and Canadian art.

Finally, many festivals and amusing events occur in Kingston. Some of the most popular are Limestone City Blues Festival and Kingston Buskers Rendezvous.

Thunder Bay is the gateway to the great outdoors

Thunder Bay may be the perfect place for nature lovers. It offers endless outdoor adventures for every season. Being located on the shores of Lake Superior, the city has breathtaking landscapes. One of them is surely the iconic Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. You could also visit Kakabeka Falls, known as the “Niagara of the North,” if you want to enjoy stunning views and explore hiking opportunities.

Winters here are also exciting. You can go snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling.

Thunder Bay is steeped in history with attractions like Fort William Historical Park bringing the past to life. This reconstructed fur trade post allows visitors to step back into the 1800s and experience daily life during that era.

The city’s waterfront is another highlight with Marina Park where you can enjoy concerts, festivals, and the scenic backdrop of Lake Superior. If you’re moving from BC to Ontario, Thunder Bay offers a similar appreciation for nature but with its own unique features.

The local arts scene is energetic with galleries showcasing beautiful art and modern works. The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is dedicated to the works of First Nations artists and it provides cultural insight and appreciation.

The city’s culinary offerings are diverse featuring local delicacies like the Finnish-inspired “hoito” pancakes.

The city offers numerous outdoor adventures for every season.

All these qualities qualify Thunder Bay as one of the hidden gems of Ontario worth discovering. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy some of the places and events we have listed above.

Just outside Toronto discover “The Royal City” of Guelph

Guelph is a calm alternative to Toronto and a city known for its eco-friendly initiatives. The residents are fully committed to sustainability. Walking down its street, you can see charming historic architecture and witness its lively arts scene. There are many shops downtown and a farmers’ market that has been running since 1827. If you go to Riverside Park, you can take a walk down its scenic trails and see a beautiful and unique floral clock. Also, the University of Guelph’s Arboretum spreads across 400 acres of gardens and paths that offer a peaceful retreat. If you like art, you can explore the Guelph Civic Museum to dive into the city’s history or enjoy modern art at the Art Gallery of Guelph. There are many festivals that draw the community together and one of the most famous is surely the Hillside Festival.

Once you meet the city well, you will understand that this is a nice place to live. Some of the best moving companies in Ontario keep helping families and young professionals call Guelph home. If you decide to become a resident of “The Royal City of Gulph” yourself, you should know that this is a very good decision you will never regret.

Transformation from mining town to modern city

Once a mining town, Sudbury is today a city known for science, education, and the arts. You will love the hundreds of lakes that surround the city especially if you like fishing, boating, and other water sports. The heart of the city is Ramsey Lake. It is a place to visit if you like spending time outdoors and recreation. You can also go to the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area where trails for hiking and bird-watching provide a peaceful escape close to the city. Then, moving to PEI from Ontario won’t be necessary as you will be in a friendly, laid-back, and warm environment where you can enjoy nature and a pleasant time outdoors.

If you are an art lover, a focus on arts and culture is clear in venues like the Sudbury Theatre Centre and the Art Gallery of Sudbury. With the events they organize and host, these venues greatly enrich the local scene. On the other hand, if you want an activity to learn and have fun at the same time, you should go to Science North. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it offers interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater for hands-on learning experiences.

Originally a mining town, it’s now a center for science, education, and the arts.

Thanks to its extensive environmental recovery efforts, Sudbury now deserves the reputation of one of Ontario’s hidden gems. The affordable housing and strong community it offers make this city attractive for newcomers and reliable province to province movers very busy all year round. Today, Sudbury’s journey of transformation has made it a forward-thinking center focused on both innovation and sustainability.

Stratford: A cultural haven beyond the festival

It’s no secret that Stratford is famous for its annual Shakespeare Festival. However, the city has so much more to offer. With its beautiful streets, artisanal shops, and thriving culinary scene, Stratford appeals to visitors and residents alike. Once you visit it, you might seek reliable Canadian moving services fast because of your strong wish to settle down here. You cannot but love its strong community spirit and focus on the arts. Then, there is the Avon River. It runs through the city and provides a scenic backdrop for walking and picnicking. Swans glide gracefully on the water, adding to the town’s charm. The Stratford Perth Museum offers insights into local history and the city’s galleries showcase works by local artists.

Stratford attracts both visitors and locals.

Stratford’s culinary reputation is growing mostly thanks to the Stratford Chefs School. The school has trained many of Canada’s top chefs and thus also contributed to the city’s gourmet offerings. Festivals like the Stratford Garlic Festival celebrate local produce and culinary creativity.

As one of the hidden gems of Ontario, Stratford provides a rich cultural experience beyond its famous theater productions. The city’s commitment to arts and culture creates a vibrant atmosphere that attracts creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Its blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes it an ideal destination if you enjoy a high quality of life in a smaller community.

Sault Ste. Marie: A mix of urban and natural wonders

Located on the border with Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie offers a unique mix of urban amenities and access to stunning natural landscapes. The city is known for the Sault Ste. Marie Canal and its historic lock system which connects Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you can explore the nearby Algoma region, famous for its fall colors and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and skiing. The city’s waterfront boardwalk provides scenic views and is a perfect spot for leisurely walks. The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre offers interactive exhibits that celebrate the history of bush flying and forest protection in Canada. If you are an art lover, head to the Art Gallery of Algoma which showcases regional and national artists. It is truly one of the hidden gems of Ontario offering diverse experiences for visitors and residents alike.

Sault Ste. Marie’s proximity to Lake Superior makes it a gateway to the Great Lakes’ natural wonders.

Sault Ste. Marie’s proximity to Lake Superior makes it a gateway to the Great Lakes’ natural wonders. The Lake Superior Provincial Park and Pancake Bay Provincial Park are nearby, offering stunning landscapes, beaches, and trails. In winter, the area becomes a playground for snow sports, including snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. If you are considering a move, Sault Ste. Marie provides a cost-effective alternative with a strong community feel. The city’s strategic location offers the convenience of cross-border shopping and cultural exchange with the United States.

The electric city with a cultural spark

Peterborough, known as “The Electric City” due to its early adoption of electric streetlights, is an energetic community that combines historical significance with modern living. Located on the Otonabee River, it offers a variety of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. The Peterborough Lift Lock, the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world, is a marvel of engineering and a highlight of the Trent-Severn Waterway. Visitors can take boat tours to experience this unique structure firsthand. The city’s downtown area is filled with shops, cafes, and live music venues, creating a lively atmosphere.

The city’s low cost of living and great quality of life attract people looking to move.

If you are a nature enthusiast, you will enjoy the extensive network of trails and parks. The Riverview Park and Zoo offers free admission and is a family favorite. Nearby, the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area provides opportunities for spelunking, hiking, and canoeing. Peterborough’s arts scene is thriving, with the Art Gallery of Peterborough and numerous festivals celebrating music, film, and culture. The city’s affordability and quality of life make it appealing for those looking to relocate. Its combination of history, nature, and culture solidifies its status as one of the hidden gems of Ontario.

Hidden gems of Ontario

Exploring the hidden gems of Ontario reveals a province rich in diverse experiences beyond its famous cities. From the historical charm of Kingston to the natural beauty of Thunder Bay, each destination offers something unique. Whether you’re traveling or relocating, these underrated places offer a fresh way to experience Ontario. They reveal the province’s unique culture, history, and landscapes. Embracing these hidden gems can lead to unforgettable adventures and perhaps even inspire a new place to call home. Ontario’s lesser-known destinations showcase the province’s diversity, welcoming communities, and the beauty that lies just beyond the well-trodden paths. So next time you’re planning a trip or considering a move, remember that Ontario’s best-kept secrets might be waiting for you just around the corner.